RismadarVoice Reporters, February 16, 2026
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on dealers of Indian hemp and other illicit substances across the state, leading to multiple arrests, the recovery of significant quantities of suspected prohibited drugs.
In a press release issued on February 16, 2026, and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the Command disclosed that the operations were intelligence-driven and targeted at identified criminal flashpoints across the state.
According to the statement, the coordinated raids were simultaneously executed in known hideouts following actionable intelligence. Several suspects are currently in police custody and will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has directed that the fight against drug trafficking and distribution be sustained without interruption. He also issued a strong warning to individuals involved in the illegal drug trade to cease operations immediately or leave the state.
The Command noted that the proliferation of illicit drugs is closely linked to cultism, armed robbery, violent crimes, and other social vices, stressing that it will not allow criminal networks to endanger the future of young people in the state.
Police authorities further stated that surveillance has been reinforced, intelligence gathering enhanced, and inter-agency collaboration strengthened to ensure sustained enforcement.
The Command called on parents, traditional rulers, youth leaders, community stakeholders to support the police with credible information to curb drug-related crimes.
